Staying in the village of Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica.
After spending a couple of days exploring the rainforests of Lake Arenal, our next stop in Costa Rica was Puerto Viejo de Salamanca (but mostly known as just Puerto Viejo).
Puerto Viejo is in southeastern Costa Rica on the Caribbean Sea. It is a laid back village set on the coast with loads of stunning beaches lined with palm trees. The Afro-Caribbean culture permeates the beach towns, adding a unique vibe to the overall experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beach scene, explore nearby jungles, or simply unwind in the paradisiacal setting of Puerto Viejo's diverse and alluring beaches.
Where to Stay in Puerto Viejo
We stayed at Casa Verde Lodge for 4 nights which cost us £338 / $400 USD (works out around £84 / £103 a night) for 3 people. Casa Verde was the perfect location to explore Puerto Viejo and was good value. The room was quite basic, but included a private bathroom, air conditioning, a safe and towels. There was a seating area on the terrace. The hotel included a pool which we didn't use very much as we spent most of our days at the beach or exploring the town. The best part about this hotel was the location and it was a short stroll to some of the best beaches, restaurants, shops and cafes.
Places to Eat in Puerto Viejo
There are loads of great places to eat and drink in Peurto Viejo from local restaurants serving freshly caught fish to cute cafes serving loads of breakfast options. Here are some of the best places we ate and drank in Peurto Viejo:
Cafe Rico
We went here twice for breakfast because we loved it so much. This cafe is also a bookshop and the walls are covered with bookshelves. The food was great, offering so many different options from homemade sandwiches to iced coffees and cooked breakfasts.
Av. 69, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica
Bread and Chocolate Cafe
A great spot for breakfast in Puerto Viejo. The menu includes freshly ground Costa Rican coffee, fresh juices and breakfast dishes like bagels, muffins and eggs.
Como en mi Casa Art Cafe
A colourful, bohemian cafe close to the beach that offers lots of breakfast options as well as sandwiches. They make everything from scratch and there are lots of healthy options including vegan and gluten-free. You can sit outside on the balcony and look out at the views of Puerto Viejo whilst you eat your breakfast.
Calle 215 Limon de Talamanca, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, 7304, Costa Rica
Best Beaches in Puerto Viejo
The beaches of Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica have raw, natural beauty and vibrant atmospheres. Nestled along the country's Caribbean coast, these pristine stretches of coastline boast golden sands, fringed by lush tropical vegetation, with the opportunity see some incredible wildlife including tropical birds and sloths.
Punta Uva Beach
Punta Uva Beach is home to beautiful turquoise waters, coral reefs and fine white sand. The beach is a paradise for snorkeling, as the coral formations are home to a diverse array of marine life. Surrounded by lush jungle, Punta Uva is full of natural beauty. Here is where we saw sloths on the beach, so keep an eye out in the trees.
Manzanillo Beach
Manzanillo Beach is located in the south of Puerto Viejo and is the perfect place to go to escape the crowds. The beach is framed by dense jungle, making the beach shores feel secluded. Manzanillo Beach is great for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing.
